Queenscliff has a new mayor, with Donnie Grigau chosen by his fellow councillors to take the helm.
The Borough of Queenscliffe elected Cr Grigau as mayor for the next year, after he was the only councillor nominated for the role during council’s 26 November meeting.
Cr Grigau said he looked forward to communicating council’s shared decisions while presenting one consistent and respectful voice to the community.
“My commitment is simple; Queenscliff deserves a council that works together and a mayor that brings people together,” he said.
“My aim is to support open discussion, good governance and decisions guided by evidence and community engagement.”
Cr Grigau said he was excited to take on the role of mayor and hoped to represent the community and council to the best of his abilities.
“Our direction is already set by the borough’s community vision and council plan and will stay focused on delivering what our ratepayers and community has asked of us,” he said.
“This includes protecting and celebrating our heritage, from Fisherman’s Flat to our maritime and military history, and…ensuring responsible financial management across our work.
“(It also includes) supporting community well-being, including navigating the federal aged care reforms in a way that respects our long tradition of local care.
“And delivering climate and environmental projects, including coastal management, water, planning, weeding, and energy efficiency improvements.”
Cr Grigau will take over as mayor from Cr Di Rule, who was also unanimously elected as deputy mayor during the council meeting.
The night also marked the last council meeting for outgoing chief executive Martin Gill, following the early finalisation of his employment contract at the end of November.
“I would like to acknowledge the services over the last six years of Mr Gill, who has made a significant contribution to our community,” Cr Rule said.
“I thank Mr Gill for his efforts and wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
